RTSA urges an end to corruption among traffic officers

THE Road Transport and Safety Agency says corruption among traffic officials is posing a great risk to road safety. Agency chief executive officer Zindaba Soko said the effect of corruption was not only a loss of state revenue, but that it might contribute to road accidents if not curbed.

“Corrupt officials who allow motorists who speed, or who are driving vehicles that are not roadworthy to proceed on their journey are posing a threat to road safety and the consequences for other road users are potentially disastrous, he said. A breakdown in public trust of the integrity of traffic officials is also likely to result in an increase in lawlessness among road users.

Soko called for an end to corrupt practices among traffic officials. He said RTSA would join efforts with the government to eradicate corruption in the Agency. He was speaking during the RTSA integrity awareness programme in Chipata yesterday ahead of the Anti-Corruption Day. The UN General Assembly in 2005 designated December 9 as the International Anti-Corruption Day.

This is contained in a statement issued by RTSA head of public relations Fredrick Mubanga.